Kayak Carriers for a 2008 Subaru Outback Wagon with Factory Roof Rack

Question:

I would like to transport 2 kayaks on my 2008 Subaru Outback wagon which has factory racks listing a max of 100 lbs. Does this apply to the crossbars or the rails? I am thinking of getting a Thule system listed max of 150 lbs, but only if the Subie rails will support the extra weight. Also, I have a tandem kayak which is 30 in wide that I would like to transport flat, while transporting the other single kayak in a J saddle. Will these fit together on the Thule THLB50 50 crossbars? Finally, are there any other products I should consider?

asked by: Dan

Expert Reply:

The 100 pound capacity on the 2008 Subaru Outback Wagon most likely refers to the system as a whole. In all probability they took the lowest rated component in the system, either the roof, the side rails, or the crossbars, and went by that rating for the whole system. You may be able to find the capacity of each separate component in the owners manual or by contacting a dealership.

But even if you were to add different crossbars like the Thule SquareBars, # TH712100, Thule still states that on the 2008 Subaru Outback that you will need to stay within the100 pound capacity.

As long as the combined weight of the kayaks and kayak carriers does not exceed the weight capacity of the roof rack and are wide enough you should be able to carry both kayaks. It takes minimal space on your roof rack so you can carry more gear and comes with a 2-year limited warranty.

For the Kayak you want to carry flat I recommend the Top Deck, # TH881. It is a simple design that will not take up too much space and is very light.

For the other kayak, I recommend the Rhino-Rack J-Style Kayak Carrier # S512. This is a typical J-style carrier that is also light weight.